Orange Street ArtsFest in Wilmington: What to know about the artists, food and parking

One of downtown Wilmington's popular springtime arts festivals is returning in May.

The Orange Street ArtsFest will celebrate its 28th year on May 25-26 in downtown Wilmington.

Here are three things to know about the in-person family friendly festival that is suitable for all ages.

What's happening?

The Orange Street ArtsFest was launched in 1995 by the Thalian Association Community Theatre to promote the arts in Wilmington and the Community Arts Center (located in the Historic USO building, 120 S. Second St.). The street fair will be held Saturday, May 25 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday, May 26 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Orange Street next to the Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center on Second Street to Dock Street.

Artists will also be inside the arts center lobby museum, auditorium and downstairs in the Donn Ansell Studio adjacent to the Hannah Block parking lot. Visitors can tour the World War II exhibits. A special ceramic exhibit featuring the work of Laney High School students will be on display in the Peggy Farrell Studio. There will be food trucks available to purchase food and beverages.

About the artists

Artists' works would include ― acrylic, oils, watercolor, sculpture, drawing, graphics, wearable arts, leather jewelry, clay, glass, fiber, metal work or mixed media juried by Wilmington artist Ben Billingsley. Some of the artists that will be attending are:

• More Than Clay, Emily Tippett
• Seashore Carvings, Bob Bohannon
• Paper Daisy Press, Erin Kerr
• Whitney Futrell Art, Whitney Futrell

Where to park?

Orange Street between Second and Front streets and Second Street between Orange and Dock streets will be closed. Visitors can park on Third Street and Front Street or the parking deck on Market Street.